A veteran police officer with the Columbus, OH police department is in critical condition this morning after being shot in a standoff by a wanted arson suspect.

Officer Steven Smith, a member of the department's SWAT team, was shot as he and other officers approached the home of Lincoln Rutledge, 44, of Clintonville. Officer Smith was transported to a local hospital for treatment and is listed in critical condition.

A several hours standoff ensued after the shooting before Rutledge was taken into custody.

Officer Smith joined the Columbus police department in 1988 and is a highly respected member of the force. Police Chief Kim Jones said of Smith, "He's very highly respected, very highly trained, well-liked. He always had a smile on his face. People really loved to be around him, and they're hoping to continue that for many years to come."

Officer Smith has been injured on the job before. Just three years ago he was struck with shrapnel in another SWAT team standoff with an armed suspect.

-SUPPORTINGCOPS.ORG

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